The soft sun invites travelers to the mountain village of Omodos, where feet eagerly explore every courtyard and every house. After all, life here is so well-organized and well-maintained. Today, I want to tell you about the country life in Omodos village in the Troodos Mountains. It is one of my favorite places in Cyprus.
Omodos is considered one of the most enchanting villages on the island. It has spread its whitewashed houses with tiled roofs at an altitude of 810 meters above sea level, 42 kilometers from Limassol.
Once there were other settlements here: Pano and Kato Kupetra. It happened that Kupetra fell apart, and in its place, the village of Omodos was born. The beginning of life in Omodos is associated with the end of the Byzantine era and the beginning of Frankish rule.
Legends about the name of the village Omodos.
Villagers tell three versions of the origin of the name Omodos. According to the first version, the residents of the village Kupetra noticed that a bright light appears in the mountains at the same time. It would burn and then go out, as if some unknown force was giving a sign. They were very curious and wanted to find out what was hidden in the mountains.
So, one day, they all went to the mountains following the guiding light. They discovered that the light came from a cave in a grotto, and the entrance was blocked by a mighty thorny bush. They started cutting branches to enter the cave, repeating to each other the words “mé to módo su,” which in Greek mean “don’t hurry, with composure.” They repeated these words until they found a flickering candle under a wooden cross. The mystery of who lit the candle remained unsolved.
The second version states that many streets leading to the surrounding villages originate from the village of Omodos. Therefore, the word “omodos” is derived from the Cypriot dialect “omu” (preposition “with”) and the noun “odos” (street).
According to the third version, based on surviving documents from the Frankish era, it is said that a feudal lord named Omodeus once lived in the village of Omodos, and the village was named after him.
If you are looking for more picturesque and whimsical villages, I have more posts that might interest you. The villages of Kakopetria in the Troodos Mountains and the fishing village of Liopetri may catch your attention.
The charming pastorals of Omodos.
Omodos… the smell of smoke from rural ovens wafts through the air. The scent of summer is everywhere, flowers are in bloom. It’s a paradise for those destined to be born and live here. The fresh mountain air fills the lungs, and memories of one’s country house immediately come to mind.
In the center of the village is the parish monastery of the Holy Cross. The holy abode watches over the people who peacefully stroll through the village square, framed by large stones. The square is so inspiring that it’s impossible to resist grabbing an easel and paints. And that’s exactly what artists who come here do. This village is so photogenic that you want to capture every corner, whether on paper or on camera.
Local residents set up neat tables on the streets and squares, sipping coffee and smoking cigarettes. Their wives, hiding from the sun under the wide canopies of mulberry trees, sell handmade crafts, embroideries, figurines made of blown glass, figs, koulourakia, and lace. In the shady courtyards, old women chat about their lives. And children loudly shout and play tag. Here, a local vendor sells ripe tomatoes, juicy fragrant apples, and spicy cherries he lovingly gathered from his garden. Lovely women sit in the shade of trees and weave their lace. Somewhere on the pavement, cats softly tread, and then, curling up, fall asleep in the clean mountain air, basking in the sun.
Where else can you find this? Only in such remote places can you experience a bit of Cypriot village life. Completely immersed in the authentic atmosphere, you don’t think about work or any other business.
By the way, the lace embroidered by local grandmothers is called “pipiles”. This method of embroidery came from Byzantine times. Handmade work comes in different sizes and shapes, and decorate her houses, furniture, women’s handbags, napkins, tablecloths, sweaters. That’s the country life in Omodos village in the Troodos Mountains.
If you plan to visit Cyprus and are considering a trip, I have the perfect route for you that covers the entire country.
What to do in the Omodos village.
Visit the house-museum of Mr. Socrates.
Resourceful Socrates has created a whole museum. He gathered ancient items that lay in attics covered in dust. Some exhibits he repaired and now they bear witness to history. The museum has many fascinating everyday objects that were once used by the village residents. Here you’ll find plows, wedding dresses, dishes, cribs, and antique furniture.
Try the wines. The country life in Omodos village in the Troodos Mountains.
The oldest winery, Harilaos, is located near the monastery, and the vibrant greenery of the vineyards tells the story that traditional dry wines have been produced here since ancient times. In August, wine festivals are held here, with dancing, singing, a fair of local curiosities, and wine tasting. It is said that the best wine here is Afamis, named after the local mountain.
Try the sweets made from grapes.
Try the sweets made from grapes, such as suzukos and palouze. The residents of the village create these grape sweets by hand. Once the grapes ripen, they are harvested and pressed to extract the juice. The juice is then poured into pots, mixed with flour, and cooked on high heat for several hours. Threads with nuts and almonds are dipped into the boiling mixture to create sweet sausages known as churchkhela. These sweets are sold everywhere in Omodos, in every shop and household. Visit the home of one of the hosts, and they will gladly show you how these treats are made.
Over the cauldron, she’ll be witchcrafting like a real witch. And the jam that’s brewing! You’ll love it! There is jam from apples, quince, pomeranian, cherries. You can take a lot of sweets home with you. And all winter long you can drink fragrant tea with jam spread on a fresh bun.
Want to know more about Cyprus? Don’t miss my post about the most romantic locations near Ayia Napa.
Visit Yannis’s home.
Now, kind traveler, head to the central street where you’ll find a traditional dwelling and an amazing tavern. Enter and be amazed by the coziness and beauty. The place, named “Mr. Yannis,” was built by Stavros in honor of his father Yannis. Here, modernity and antiquity coexist harmoniously – a miniature art gallery, a cafeteria, a piano, and a guitar played by occasional musicians. The walls are adorned with dozens of photos depicting happy faces of visitors, recounting their days spent with the father and son. Most dishes are made from the family’s garden produce. If you desire wine, the host will treat you to homemade wine with a unique taste from their own vineyard.
How to get to Omodos in the Troodos Mountains.
If you plan to travel by car, take the B8 highway. When you reach the village of Trimiklini, at the end of the village turn left at the sign Pera Pedi. After passing Pera Pedi, keep to the direction of the village of Mandria, at the exit of which don’t miss the sign for Omodos. The village will lie slightly below the main road, so look for the exit to the village itself.
I highly recommend exploring Cyprus by your own transport, as it’s one of those regions where getting around by car is the easiest! Plus, many attractions are quite far apart. Don’t have your own car? Why not rent one for a day or two? Check prices and availability here.
Check Aviasales to find the cheapest flights to Cyprus if you’re planning to travel from another country.
The most comfortable hotels in Omodos in the Troodos Mountains.
Country life in Omodos village – is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also boasts some of the most comfortable hotels for those who crave a pampering retreat.
Casale Panayiotis: Casale Panayiotis is a gem nestled in the Troodos Mountains, offering a seamless blend of traditional charm and modern comfort. The hotel comprises a collection of lovingly restored stone buildings, creating a unique atmosphere that transports guests to a bygone era. Indulge in luxurious spa treatments, savor local culinary delights, and unwind in elegantly appointed rooms with breathtaking mountain views.
Omodos Katoi Holiday Homes: for a more intimate and personalized experience, Omodos Katoi Holiday Homes provide a cozy retreat in the heart of the village. These charming accommodations feature traditional stone architecture and modern amenities. Immerse yourself in the village’s culture and history while enjoying the comfort of thoughtfully designed interiors.
Thalassines Villas: nestled in a tranquil setting with panoramic views of the Troodos Mountains, Thalassines Villas offer a perfect blend of luxury and natural beauty. Each villa is a private haven, equipped with modern conveniences and a private pool. Guests can relish the serenity of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves, making it an ideal choice for a romantic getaway.
Narrow streets with small residential houses, balconies adorned with delightful flower pots, blossoming trees, and shaded courtyards where grandmothers sit embroidering – all of this describes the charming Omodos village. It’s truly enchanting!
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